Hi all, okay I need some advice. I have been in some form of RA pain since Jan. I have been on Enbrel for two months, Pred (20 mg) for two month, and I am still always feeling pressure in my chest, and it gets to the point that it's just too hard to breathe with an elephant on my chest. I have swelling and pain in most of my joints, especially my hands.My RD is trying to get MTX injections for me approved by my insurance. What should I do until then? I work full time and talking is exhausting me now. I welcome your imput, thanks Rain
Pressure in your chest needs to be checked out. It is not a normal side effect of your medications. You could have a lung infection going on, costrochronditis (inflammation of your breast bone - in this case, you can really pinpoint the spot).
But you need your lungs listened to and your oxygen levels checked. Can you go to an Urgent Care center this evening or tomorrow morning?
If you have a lung infection, which can happen more often with Enbrel, you have to stop the Enbrel and call your Rheumy right away.
Rain, this isn't normal. Even if it's just inflammation of the ribcage, it has to be diagnosed by specialists like your Rheumy, possibly a Cardiologist and a Pulmonologist.
If nothing else, call your Rheumy's office and speak to whomever is on call. But I really, really think you need a doctor listening to those lungs and your heart.
Hi Rain
I have had ra for 5plus years and my best advice for feeling pressure like an elephant on my chest was when I was under a lot of stress. I recall the pressure so bad that I made myself cough just to try and stop some of the pressure. It lasted for several weeks but it eventually did go away. Trying to learn to relax was what worked for me. Hope this helps.
Caroline, Canada
Rain...
I would think you are suffering from costochondritis, chest wall inflammation. I would feel better if I knew you had a clear chest xray though. I assume you ahve said something to your RD?
When I went to the ER in June with costochondritis I told the doctors that it felt like I had my fat cat laying on my chest. I would get pin point pain and it would radiate out in my breast. They kept me overnight because of the cardiac risk RA patients have. The following morning I had to do the dreaded treadmill test and was sent home with Percocet.
From what I have read costochondritis kinda sticks around with you. Mine flares during my menstrual cycle, between the hormones and the breast swelling.